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Daniel Beyer

The German program at Canisius College has had a large impact on my perception of the institution itself, and of the world beyond. In completing my German major, I was exposed to the fascinating culture and challenging history of a resilient nation. Some of the richest moments of my education were spent discussing the creative explosion that occurred during the turbulent times of the Weimar Republic. The offshoots of this period are still seen today, as even Steve Jobs designed his Apple products after the Bauhaus movement.

National German Honors Society adds another dimension to the German experience at Canisius College. The group itself carries on the Germanic tradition of the Jesuit founders, which is in itself rewarding to learn about; but additionally, through joining, each member is able to attend cultural events in the WNY and Toronto area: Performances at the BPO, the Toronto International Film Festival (TIFF), and the annual German Mass or: Weihnachtsmesse are some of the many things that members can look forward to.

Given that Germany has played, and continues to play such an influential role in European politics, it is not boasting to say that it is one of the most vital and useful programs for understanding world affairs. Not to mention, with the addition of the National German Honors Society, each student is given the opportunity to enjoy and experience German culture without leaving Buffalo. Thus, I can say – with bias, but with total earnest, that Canisius is one of the best institutions to choose for learning and living the German language and culture.